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[Anosmia and COVID-19]
Antoine Reinhard1, Christos Ikonomidis1, Martin Broome1
1Service d'ORL et chirurgie cervico-faciale, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne.
Revue Medicale Suisse
|April 30, 2020
Summary
New anosmia, or loss of smell, is a frequent symptom of COVID-19. Consider any new anosmia as a potential SARS-CoV-2 infection, prompting isolation and testing.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Anosmia and dysgeusia are frequently reported symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- These olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions can be early or isolated symptoms, particularly in mild COVID-19 cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of anosmia as a potential indicator of COVID-19.
- To provide guidance on patient management and diagnostic considerations during the pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Observational analysis of reported COVID-19 symptoms.
- Clinical guidance based on emerging evidence.
Main Results:
- Anosmia, with or without dysgeusia, is a common manifestation of COVID-19.
- It can present as an initial or isolated symptom, even in patients with few other signs of infection.
Conclusions:
- Patients presenting with new-onset anosmia should be considered potentially infected with SARS-CoV-2.
- Recommendations include self-isolation, monitoring for other symptoms, and testing.
- Contraindications for treatment include topical/systemic corticosteroids and nasal washes.
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